Money dignifies what is frivolous if unpaid for.
Virginia WoolfRead
When thinking about the future, it is fashionable to be pessimistic. Yet the evidence unequivocally belies such pessimism. Over the past centuries, humanity's lot has improved dramatically - in the developed world, where it is rather obvious, but also in the developing world, where life expectancy has more than doubled in the past 100 years.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the contrast between common pessimism about the future and the significant improvements in human life over time.
In this quote, Bjorn Lomborg points out that it is a trend to be skeptical and pessimistic about the future, yet contrary to this belief, evidence shows that humanity has made considerable progress, especially in terms of life expectancy and quality of life over the last century. Lomborg argues that rather than focusing on negativity, we should acknowledge and celebrate the advancements achieved in both developed and developing countries, which demonstrate that progress is not only possible but has been occurring.
Themes
FuturePessimismProgressHumanityLife Expectancy
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about innovation and progress.
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